While many fans are enjoying the excitement of March Madness, for others it’s a time of struggle. Dealing with the issue of gambling is a tough feat.
For those already struggling, this time of year becomes harder than ever.
Lynne Buechler, a Clinical Therapist knows the impact illegal sports betting has on events like March Madness. According to the Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling, billions of dollars are wagered during March Madness in the United States alone.
Lynne said, “There is an increase of gambling suicides in March, particularly because of the bracket issue. The increase is seen around 18% to 23%.”
Lynne says some gamblers participate in a chase. They’ll lose money on different brackets and rounds of the tournament, and their left scrambling to make up their losses.
The best way to avoid this is to know your limit and how much your willing to lose, because, the odds are against you.